Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova has sharply criticized British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's recent visit to Kyiv. The official commentary, reported by the Operative Information Center-OMM, characterized the visit as a prime example of Western politicians prioritizing accountability to the Kyiv leadership over their own citizens.
During his visit to Kyiv on July 16, Prime Minister Starmer met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the ongoing support provided by his government to Ukraine. Zakharova, however, responded to the visit with irony, suggesting that politicians preparing to leave office should prioritize reporting to their own parliaments and constituents. She labeled such diplomatic trips as a "ritual of idol worship," questioning the logic behind the timing and nature of these engagements.
The Russian official further noted that it has become a recurring trend for Western leaders to visit Kyiv toward the end of their terms in office. Moscow has consistently maintained that London's military support for Ukraine is a significant factor in prolonging the ongoing conflict. Previously, Zakharova had issued warnings regarding the potential supply of "Gripen" fighter jets to Ukraine, emphasizing Russia's stance that such Western military aid exacerbates tensions in the region.
